Medicare Part B
Medicare has several parts to consider when making your health care insurance choices. Understanding Medicare and how it works will allow you to choose the best plan to fit your needs. One part of the Medicare program is called Part B. Part B Premiums Most people have to pay a premium for Part B. You can check to see if you are qualified to receive help from your state to pay for premiums or deductibles. Otherwise, the premium is usually deducted from a Social Security, Railroad Retirement or Civil Service Retirement check. The Part B premium can also be paid every quarter or through the electronic payment option, or Medicare Easy Pay. Premiums will be based on income beginning January of 2007. What is Part B? Medicare Part B is a medical insurance provided by the federal government to eligible beneficiaries. The coverage provided by Part B includes medically necessary doctor's services, outpatient care, and most other services that Part A does not cover such as some physical or occupational therapies and some home health care services. Part B covers preventive services as well. What does Part B Cover? Medicare Part B covers many services, tests, preventive treatments, etc. that are common among health care patients, but are not covered in the Part A plan. Though many services and products are covered, keep in mind that Part B is still not a 100% insurance coverage plan. So, as with any other insurance policy, you should understand the plan and coverage completely upon enrolling. Part B helps cover only the medically necessary services listed below:
Doctor, Hospital and Home Health Care
Preventive Shots
Additional services covered include, but are not limited to:
Overall, Part B will provide additional coverage to help minimize your health care insurance worries. Whatever health care insurance coverage you choose, make sure you have a clear understanding of options, coverage, and premiums. Seek a Medicare representative that will take time to explain what type of coverage you will receive and will offer clear instructions for signing on with a Medicare program. |
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